In the not to distant future they may be able to test for autism or speech delays by taking a sample of your baby's vocalizations. Researchers out of the University of Kansas believe a voice analysis system called LENA can be used to pick out the voice patterns of children with autism. In the current research study the system was able to accurately separate the voice patterns of children with autism between the ages of 10 months old to 4 years old.

"We have a system that could potentially be a way to screen for autism and language delay – potentially well before diagnosis," says Warren.He emphasizes that this new algorithm or method for voice analysis is not a screening tool for autism – yet. Warren says more studies involving children who are younger and where researchers know nothing about their development still have to be conducted.

Early diagnosis is important because early intervention is believed to be a key factor in improving the language ability, IQ, and socialization of autistic children.